IDW Publishing and Mattel has announced a first-ever line of AMERICAN GIRL original graphic novels, featuring all-new mysteries based on American Girl’s beloved historical characters and original modern-day characters, plus a reimagining of the fan-favorite historical introductory “Meet” books.
The first graphic novel release, JULIE AND THE BLUE GUITAR: AN AMERICAN GIRL MYSTERY, arrives on June 25, 2024. Written by Casey Gilly and illustrated by Felia Hanakata, JULIE AND THE BLUE GUITAR: AN AMERICAN GIRL MYSTERY will revolve around Emma Dhillon in 2024 as she befriends Julie Albright through her journal from 1977 and uncovers a mystery in Julie’s time. Weaving together two storylines from different eras, this original graphic novel will see the modern girl and historical character join forces to make a difference today.
“It’s such an honor to contribute to the American Girl legacy, and I hope fans and new readers fall in love with Emma, reconnect with Julie, and have a wonderful time in this world,” said Gilly. “As a parent and former Bay Area resident of over a decade, my goal was to infuse our book with exploration and discovery, inspiring readers to be curious like Emma and maybe find a mystery in their own backyard. Felia’s art is absolutely beautiful, and I can’t wait for everyone to see how much fun we had telling this story.”
“I grew up reading fun mystery novels for kids, so I’m super excited to work on this project – with such a cool team, too! There’s a lot to love here, and the unique premise and setting we see through Julie’s eyes are sure to inspire AG fans,” commented Hanakata. “I hope kids have fun reading this page-turner as much as I did drawing it.”
Working on these new stories is a dream come true for IDW Editor Riley Farmer. “As a girl who grew up in the early 2000s, so many of my childhood memories are centered around American Girl, from getting my first doll (Kit Kittredge), to devouring the books, to circling everything in the catalog.” Farmer knows how much these dolls and their treasured tales mean to fans and has worked tirelessly to make sure the graphic novels stay true to the magical and meaningful experiences that American Girl fans have come to expect. “American Girl has always prioritized rich, girl-centered stories that weave their characters into America’s history, and IDW and our creative teams are thrilled to bring those stories, and new ones, into the graphic novel space. Readers can look forward to well researched, detailed, and diverse stories that will tug on the heartstrings of both new and existing fans.”
“American Girl is excited to partner with IDW to bring our beloved historical characters to the graphic novel format to further extend our storytelling with readers,” says Jodi Goldberg, Sr. Director Content Development, American Girl. “The exciting new mysteries across time and fun-filled retellings of our characters’ original stories provide delightful modern twists on the classics that are sure to resonate with today’s readers. There’s something for everyone!”
Arriving in 2025 will be MEET JOSEFINA (February), and ISABEL AND NICKI VERSUS THE BIGFOOT BANDIT: AMERICAN GIRL MYSTERIES ACROSS TIME (July).
Readers can preorder JULIE AND THE BLUE GUITAR: AN AMERICAN GIRL MYSTERY everywhere books are sold, including at www.americangirl.com starting in June 2024.